Shock of the Old - Hardcover

Wilkinson, Philip

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0752272098 ISBN 13: 9780752272092

Publisher: Channel 4, 2000

Synopsis

British Buildings is a series on Channel Four presented by Piers Gough, one of Britain's architects. The book deals with Roman architecture, Gothic cathedrals, vernacular buildings, the industrial revolution and modern architecture. By delving into our architectural heritage, Gough will reveal that many buildings of the past, rather than being part of a quaint homogenous British landscape were dramatic statements of modern form, technology and occasionally eccentricity. Gough will argue that contemporary architecture has lost its way because it romanticises periods and styles of the past. He also believes that "The failure of modern architecture is the failure to be comfortable. It's not so much that we hate modern styles, more that we don't know how to relax in them". He also believes we have become nostalgic about materials like iron and brick, but of course when they were invented they were "shockingly" new.

About this title

About the Author

Phillip Wilkinson has written over 40 books for publishers such as Macmillan, Dorling Kindersley and Dragon's World (Collins & Brown), and recently won a US Institute of Architects award for the best children's book on architecture. He has provided editorial consultancy on services for a variety of clients including Rolfe Judd, the London architectural practice and the British Library.

Edition details

• Publisher: Channel 4
• Publication date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0752272098
• ISBN 13: 9780752272092
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 192